New York State Senator Reverend Ruben Diaz (D-Bronx), Councilmember Joel Rivera and Community Leader Luis Sepulveda will hold a press conference with other activists on Wednesday, August 31, 2011 at 11:30 AM on the corner of East 181st Street and Daly Avenue in The Bronx to express community outrage over gun violence.

Senator Reverend Diaz stated: “The random gun violence that took place on Monday night has struck down a 20-year old man along with two of our most vulnerable citizens – a 2-year old girl and a 5-year old girl. We hope to offer some comfort and compassion for the families and neighbors of those who were shot, and to also offer comfort for parents in our community who are afraid that their children may be at the wrong place at the wrong time when some criminal feels free to wreak havoc. We will remain vigilant with our communities so they can live in safe and healthy neighborhoods.”

Mr. Sepulveda stated: “Although we are relieved that a suspect for Monday night’s shooting has been identified, crime is prevalent in the West Farms community and it can not be tolerated. How can it be that inside the walls of the Bronx Zoo – which is only one block away from this shooting – is one of the safest areas of New York State, but outside of those walls crime is rampant? We will continue to stand with our community and demand that the same levels of safety and protection that are afforded to guests of the Bronx Zoo are also provided to Bronx residents who live nearby and should not live in fear.”

For further information, please contact Luis Sepulveda at (347) 582-8173.